Author Archives: Aidan McCloskey

The History of YVR and Planespotting

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YVR has been around for nearly a century now and there’s lots of history behind it. But did you know lots of people go there just to watch planes? I’m sure you probably knew that already but did you know that there’s also a bunch of history behind it as well. The airport and the hobby of watching planes have grown a lot over the years in Vancouver. There’s so much to say about the history of Vancouver International Airport, YVR for short. And the whole plane spotting scene down here in the lower mainland. You’ve probably seen those people who geek out when they see a nice plane landing at one of Canada’s biggest airports with their cameras at the fence line, right? Let me break it down for you.

Okay, so YVR didn’t always look like the extremely busy international hub like it is today. Back in the early 1930s, Vancouver was still developing, and the need for a major airport was becoming more and more obvious. People were flying more, especially between Vancouver and Seattle, and float planes were popular along the coast. The original airport site was on Lulu Island, Richmond, to be precise. The area was chosen because it was flat and surrounded by water, perfect for expanding runways.

The first terminal was pretty basic. Think of it as more of a shed compared to today’s modern airport. It officially opened in 1931, and there was this little airstrip that could handle smaller planes. It’s funny to imagine now because it was nothing like what we see today. We’re talking about early propeller planes, no jet engines yet. And it was mainly used for mail delivery and transporting goods rather than commercial flights.

Then, as air travel grew, so did YVR. By the 1940s, during World War II, the airport started getting some more serious attention. Canada needed a west coast base for military training and transporting troops. YVR became a pretty big place for this, and military planes started filling the runways. This period laid the blueprint for YVR to expand into a full-on international airport. Once the war was over, the infrastructure was already in place, so commercial airlines started just pouring in.

The real boom for YVR came post-war, though, when air travel became accessible to the general public. By the 1950s and 60s, YVR started to see some more long-haul flights, and the airport needed to expand again.

Postcard: Vancouver International Airport, 1950

There was a huge demand for travel, especially between Canada, Asia, and Europe, which put YVR in a great spot geographically. This is when you start seeing the addition of larger runways and terminals, designed to handle the new generation of jet planes. Think about it, this was the jet plane era. Planes like the Boeing 707 and the DC-8 could fly longer distances, meaning YVR needed to accommodate more international traffic.

YVR’s transformation really accelerated in the 1980s. You might remember hearing about Expo 86, right? Well, that was a major turning point for the international airport. The world wanted to go to Vancouver for the Expo, and YVR needed to up its game. The airport underwent some pretty serious renovations to modernise and expand its facilities. The new international terminal opened in 1996, and it was a total game changer. Suddenly, YVR was competing with major global airports in terms of design, efficiency, and capacity.

And let’s not forget about the 2010 Winter Olympics. That was another huge moment for YVR. Vancouver was on the world stage again, and YVR had to handle a bunch of international visitors. They made even more upgrades to the airport, from the terminals to better transit access like the introduction of the SkyTrain station located at YVR.

Okay, so that was a quick rundown of YVR’s history. Now, let’s talk about planespotting, which is a huge hobby around the airport. Have you ever done it? Oh my goodness, it is so much fun. Planespotting is exactly what it sounds like, watching planes take off, land, or just taxi around the airport. People love capturing that perfect shot of an airplane in flight, especially rare or unusual planes. Vancouver, because of its position on the west coast, sees a lot of different air traffic, which makes it a hotspot for planespotters.

The planespotting community around YVR has really grown over the years. It’s one of the best airports in Canada for spotting because there are several great locations to watch the planes do their thing. One of the most famous spots is the Larry Berg Flight Path Park, just off the north runway.

Larry Berg Flight Path Park

It’s this cool little park with benches and a view of the planes landing right over your head. It’s named after Larry Berg, who was a long-serving CEO of the Vancouver Airport Authority and played a major part in modernising the airport.

Another great place to spot is along Templeton Street or near the Canada Line SkyTrain station. You’ll see people with their cameras, some even with scanners to listen to air traffic control. It’s pretty organised. These planespotters will often wait for specific planes, like a Boeing 747 or an Airbus A380 (my favourite plane), which don’t come through YVR every day. And if you’re lucky, you’ll see some unique liveries, those custom-painted designs airlines sometimes do to celebrate special occasions or partnerships.

And it’s just outside too, there’s a great area for plane spotting inside the airport as well. It’s honestly kind of a hidden gem inside YVR as not a lot of people usually are in that area of the airport. This area is located on the top floor of the domestic terminal.  You don’t even have to be a massive plane nerd, like myself, to enjoy the planes. It’s basically this observation deck with these huge windows that give you a perfect view of the runways. You can see planes taking off, landing, taxiing, the whole deal, all while you’re inside, nice and comfy.

Planespotting really took off as a hobby (pun intended) in the 1960s and 70s, but it’s evolved a lot since then. Back then, people would just note down the tail numbers of aircraft. These days, it’s a full-blown photography scene. Social media has been huge for this. There are entire Instagram accounts, Tiktok accounts, YouTube channels, and websites dedicated to planespotting at YVR. It’s honestly kind of fascinating to see how serious some people get about it. They’ll track flights online and know exactly when and where a specific aircraft will be landing.

YVR’s mix of planes makes it especially interesting for spotters. You get everything from tiny Dash 8s flying local routes to the massive Boeing 777s and 787s on long-haul international flights. And since YVR is a hub for Asian and Pacific flights, you’ll see airlines from Japan, Korea, China, and even Fiji. Some of the largest planes in the world come through YVR, like the Airbus A350 and the Boeing 747-8. Watching one of those giant planes take off is definitely a sight everyone needs to see at least once in their life, especially when you’re standing so close to the runway.

One of the best times to spot rare planes at YVR is during special events or emergencies. Every now and then, you’ll get diverted flights, military planes, or even private jets coming in for high-profile events. When Air Force One landed for an official visit back in 1997

or when the Antonov An-225, the largest plane in the world, came through for a cargo mission, it was a huge event for planespotters.

It’s a combination of patience, knowledge, and luck, really.

But you know, it’s not just about the big planes. Some people love spotting the smaller regional aircraft or helicopters that fly in and out of the south terminal. Harbour Air, which operates seaplanes, is also a big part of the aviation scene here in Vancouver. Planespotting at YVR is more than just a hobby, it’s almost like a competitive hobby for some people. You’re constantly trying to spot something new, something rare, or just trying to get that perfect shot.

So yeah, whether you’re a hardcore planespotter or just someone who enjoys watching planes now and then, YVR is one of the best places to do it in Canada. And with its rich history and constant growth, there’s always something new to see. You should definitely check it out sometime, grab your camera, head to the airport, and see what flies by.

Our Favorite Childhood YouTubers are Getting Old

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Many of our favourite YouTubers growing up who once defined the platform for an entire generation are now entering new chapters of their lives, transitioning away from that constant content creation that made them famous in the first place. I mean, remember when we were kids, sitting down after school, snacks in our hand, firing up YouTube and getting ready to laugh at the newest video from DanTDM, PewDiePie, Jacksepticeye, and Markiplier? These were the YouTubers who shaped our childhood, the ones we felt like we grew up alongside. But have you noticed how things have changed recently? I mean, they’re still around in one way or another, but it’s not the same. They’re all getting older. Some of them are parents now. Their priorities have changed. Some are even drifting away from YouTube altogether. It’s kind of wild to think about.

 

Take DanTDM, for example. Dan was the Minecraft guy for so many of us. He was always so upbeat, and I remember when he’d release those Minecraft mods or adventure maps, he made it feel like his minecraft world was real. But now? He’s a father of two. He’s still making content, sure, but it’s different. You can see that he’s not just the guy who sits in front of his computer playing games all day anymore. Now he talks about balancing fatherhood with content creation, and he’s even mentioned how difficult it can be to manage both. It’s clear that his sons are his biggest priority, and I get it, but man. It feels like we’ve lost that carefree, energetic Dan from back in the day.

 

And then there’s PewDiePie. Man, what a journey that guy has had, right? From being one of the most controversial creators to basically retiring from the YouTube grind. Remember when he was making daily Let’s Plays? He was all over the internet, there was a point where you couldn’t escape PewDiePie if you were on YouTube. But these days, he’s been taking a step back. It all started back in 2019, when he and his now wife, Marzia, got married.

That’s when long-time viewers, like myself, realised that this isn’t the same PewDiePie from back in 2014. He and his wife, Marzia, had a baby just over a year ago, and that’s really where his heart is now. He even moved to Japan, which was a dream of him and Marzia for years. I don’t blame him for wanting to enjoy his life after everything he’s been through, but it’s strange. This guy who once felt like the centre of YouTube culture is now living a quiet life, focusing on family while doing YouTube on the side. It’s like watching a big chapter close.

 

Jacksepticeye is another one. Sean was the high-energy, “top of the mornin’” guy who would get us pumped just by shouting into the camera at. His enthusiasm was contagious, and it felt like he’d never burn out. But over time, he’s opened up about the mental health struggles that come with being a creator, especially with the pressure of constantly putting out content.

And now, with his career evolving, he’s also been spending more time away from YouTube. He’s focused on bigger projects, like working on his charity events and even dabbling in acting. I’m pretty sure he’s thinking long-term now, probably thinking about life outside of the platform. It’s like we’re seeing him going into a different part of life, one where he’s not just the guy screaming at games anymore, but someone who’s reflecting on what’s next.

 

Markiplier, though, he’s an interesting case. Mark is still very active, but even he’s been changing. I feel like Mark’s always had this deeper side to him. Remember when he’d do serious talks in between horror game videos? That’s becoming more and more of his focus. He’s been branching out, doing big projects like “In Space with Markiplier” and even working on his movie “Iron Lung”, and while he’s still uploading gaming videos from time to time, it feels like he’s preparing for something beyond YouTube. He’s talked about how he doesn’t want to do Let’s Plays forever, and you can feel that shift in his content. He’s another one who’s not just a YouTuber anymore, he’s a filmmaker, an entrepreneur. And you know what? That’s awesome for him. But it’s another reminder that these guys are changing, and the days of constant gaming uploads are slowly going away.

 

It’s funny, though, because when you think about it, this change was inevitable. I mean, we’ve grown up, right? So, it makes sense that the creators we grew up with are growing up, too. They’re having kids, they’re getting married, they’re moving on to other interests. But it’s still kind of nice to see, you know? Like, these were the people who were always there, uploading every day, making us laugh when we needed it the most. And now? Now, they’re parents, they’re stepping back, they’re moving forward in ways we didn’t see coming when we were younger.

 

It’s not just the big names either—other creators we loved back in the day are going through the same thing. Think about creators like CaptainSparklez or even CoryxKenshin. We used to watch them constantly, and now they’ve either slowed down or moved on. Some of them even left YouTube altogether. It’s a reminder that YouTube is still this ever-changing platform, but the people who built it, who made it what it is for us, are changing too. It kind of feels like a turning point for YouTube as a whole, doesn’t it?

 

And sure, there are new creators who’ve popped up and taken their place. There are fresh faces making Minecraft videos, reaction videos, Let’s Plays, but it’s not quite the same, is it? These creators are great in their own right, but they don’t have that same connection with us because we didn’t grow up with them. We didn’t watch them grind through the early days of YouTube, we didn’t see them evolve from being just someone with a camera and a game to becoming icons of internet culture. With the older generation of YouTubers stepping back or changing, it kind of feels like we’re losing a piece of what made YouTube special for us in the first place.

 

But at the same time, I guess it’s exciting in a way. It means we get to see these creators take on new roles, new challenges, and that’s something we should celebrate. DanTDM as a dad, PewDiePie as a family man in Japan, Jacksepticeye hosting charity streams, and Markiplier making films—it’s all part of their growth, and in a way, it mirrors our own. We’re growing up too, after all. Maybe the content is changing, and maybe they’re not as present as they once were, but they’ll always be a part of our childhoods, and that’s something that won’t ever fade.

Why the Nintendo Wii Was So Great

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Ahhhh, the Nintendo Wii. There’s a reason the Wii is still one of the most loved and memorable consoles of all time. Let’s start with Wii Sports and Wii Sports Resort because, honestly, those games are one of the sole reasons as to why the console is so great. Wii Sports showed up in living rooms, hospitals, retirement homes, and even in fitness classes. There was something about swinging that virtual tennis racket or bowling on the living room TV that just clicked with people, no matter their age.

The simplicity of Wii Sports was really its main selling point. Most games at the time needed complicated button combinations or accurate analog sticks, which could be intimidating if you weren’t that much of a gamer. But here, you were just swinging a remote, doing natural movement like you would in real life. Swing a bat, roll a ball, hit a golf club, it was that easy. The Wii removed that barrier between gamers and non-gamers. People who have never touched a PlayStation or an Xbox controller were suddenly standing in their living rooms, competing in virtual bowling and golf games.

Wii Sports wasn’t just some gimmick. It got people up and moving, actually breaking a sweat, which was something consoles had never done in the past. Think about it, people were off the couch, swinging their arms, and laughing like crazy, all without even realising how active they were being. Families would play for hours, everyone getting way too competitive but loving every second. Kids could bowl alongside their grandparents, or box with their parents. That sense of togetherness was just on another level. No other console had that same kind of vibe. The Wii was just in a league of their own when it came to bringing people together.

Then they came out with Wii Sports Resort, and that just took everything up a notch. By then, they’d added this little thing called Wii MotionPlus. It was this little add-on for the remote that made every motion so much more accurate. And Wii Sports Resort? It had all these activities that just screamed a dream vacation. Like, you had sword-fighting, archery, wakeboarding, jet skiing, all these super fun things you’d just dream of doing on a family vacation. And that MotionPlus? Total game-changer. Every little swing, every little flick, every slice suddenly felt real, like you were in the game, not just playing it but really experiencing it.

Take sword fighting, for example. It’s so funny to think you’re actually on a beach on Wuhu Island swinging a sword, but it felt right. You were actually blocking, swinging, and trying to knock your friends into the water. People loved it, and it added a new level of intensity to the gameplay. Or take archery for example. The accuracy was so good that you could line up shots and aim like you were holding an actual bow and arrow. It was rewarding in a way because it felt surprisingly real, and at the same time, just accessible enough that anyone could pick it up and have a blast.

Now, Nintendo was up against some pretty serious competition back then. You had the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, both with some pretty realistic graphics and all those hardcore games made for the hardcore gamers, right? But Nintendo? They didn’t even try to keep up with all that. They didn’t need top-tier graphics or some deep, intense storyline to make the Wii work. It just had to be fun. And that’s exactly what people remember about it. Nintendo took this totally different path, focusing on the experience itself, and man, they nailed it. The Wii was made purely with fun in mind, and boy, it absolutely delivered on that.

Oh, and get this. Because it was so simple, the Wii found its way into people’s lives in ways other consoles just couldn’t. Like, it wasn’t just a living room thing, hospitals were using it for physical therapy. You’d have the elderly in retirement homes setting up these little Wii bowling leagues, which is a great sight to see, right? And even stroke patients were using Wii Sports to help with their recovery. It was the perfect way to improve balance and motor skills. Can you believe that? A game console that wasn’t only for fun but was actually helping people battle through tough times. That’s some next-level stuff.

Oh, and the Miis, how could we forget about those little guys. Customising them was honestly half the fun. People would spend hours tweaking them to look like their family members, friends, and heck even celebrities. When I was a kid, I would try to create the funniest looking Mii possible. One time, I was able to make a burger Mii. Yes, a burger Mii.

The Mii creation thing was like this whole mini-game within the console itself. And then, seeing your Mii pop off on the tennis court or the bowling alley? It just made everything feel so much more personal and, honestly, kind of hilarious. It was like, there you are, in the game, looking just as ridiculous as everyone else. The whole thing just added this unique little feature to the experience, like the console was really made for everyone, and everyone had their own face in the game.

You know what’s interesting? The Wii really brought back that sense of nostalgia for those simpler arcade-style games that had mostly disappeared in that era of gaming. Just think about Wii Sports and Wii Sports Resort, they proved that you didn’t need a hard-to-keep-track-of storyline or hours of gameplay to make a game a hit hard. I mean, you could just pick up the remote, start swinging, and instantly have a boatload of fun, right? It had that arcade vibe where you could just jump in, have fun, and put it down without worrying about missing anything important. It was such a refreshing change, especially when so many other games during that time were getting darker and more serious. With the Wii, it was all about fun and simplicity, and I think that’s what made it so special to me and a lot of other people.

When it comes to sales, Wii Sports wasn’t just like any other ordinary game, it became one of the highest-selling video games of all time, and that’s largely because it came included with every Wii console. Think about it. People weren’t just buying the console for the latest tech or graphics, they might have been getting it just for Wii Sports. It was like they recognized that it was more than just a game. It was a way to connect with family and friends, have a blast, and even get a little exercise in. You didn’t even have to call yourself a gamer to appreciate it. That’s what makes the Wii and Wii sports so special. Even years after its release, as graphics and gameplay were evolving on other platforms, Wii Sports just kind of stuck around. It was that timeless game everyone could enjoy, whether you were a hardcore gamer or just someone looking for a fun way to spend time with others.

So, was the Wii technically the best console? Not really. But here’s the thing, it offered something way more important. It was all about bringing people together. Families and friends could jump in, play together, be silly, and just enjoy themselves without the stress or frustration that sometimes comes with gaming. That’s why you hear so many people who grew up with the Wii, like myself, reminiscing about those moments. I mean, you still see Wii consoles at family gatherings sometimes. Even with all the new fancy PS5s and Xbox Series Xs out there, the Wii holds its ground.

And that’s exactly why the Wii is truly unforgettable. I mean, think about it, Wii Sports and Wii Sports Resort didn’t just offer gameplay, they created real memories. They showed us that sometimes, all you need is a simple console like the Wii and a group of friends or family who are ready to have some fun, and suddenly, magic happens. Even if you weren’t around when the Wii initially launched, the legacy of the Wii is everywhere. It turned gaming into a celebration, proving that it could bring people together in the most joyful and simple ways possible.

The Terrifier Series is Pure Nightmare Fuel

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In honour of spooky season starting, let’s talk about the Terrifier series. If you’re into horror movies that don’t hold back on the gore or psychological aspect, this is one series that should definitely be on your list of horror movies to watch. Terrifier is one of those films that makes you stay up at night, giving you exactly the kind of scare you’d expect for Halloween.

The series mainly centres around Art the Clown, and he’s not your average serial killer. Think of him as a mix of mime and modern day killer clown. He’s got this creepy makeup, this look in his eyes like he’s having the time of his life, and he doesn’t say a single word. Just that terrifying smile. But here’s the thing, he’s not like other horror movie killers who just go in for the kill. Art plays with his victims afterwards, like it’s all some twisted game. That’s why he sticks with you, you know? He’s got this way of getting under your skin that other horror movie villains just don’t.

The original Terrifier short film, actually titled The 9th Circle, introduced us to Art, but this was the 2013 short Terrifier and then the 2016 full-length film by Damien Leone that really brought Art into the spotlight. The first Terrifier movie was raw and low-budget, but it didn’t shy away from pushing the boundaries. Leone knew how to work with a small budget, using practical effects and Using basic settings to create a raw, real horror feel. That’s what really makes Terrifier special—the practical effects are intense and graphic, so the gore feels disturbingly accurate. It’s one thing to see CGI blood splatter, but it’s another thing to see practical effects so convincing that you feel you should look away, but that’s the thing, you can’t.

Art the Clown himself is an interesting character in horror. Unlike many slashers, he has no tragic backstory or deeper motive that we know of. There are few people trying to figure out the lore and backstory behind Art the Clown. There’s no revenge story, no moral code, no understandable reason behind his disturbing motives.  He’s like pure evil in clown form. The fact that he never speaks adds another to his creepiness. All he does is smile, mock, and terrify his victims into a sense of false security before pulling off some of the most gruesome kills in horror movie history.

One of the most iconic scenes, and probably the most infamous, is the hacksaw scene in the first Terrifier movie. If you’ve seen it, you know exactly what I’m talking about. That one scene alone turned Terrifier into an instant classic, setting a new bar for what horror movies could achieve without any sort of big budgets or major studio backing. It’s so intense and in-your-face that it became a challenge for horror fans. If you can sit through this scene, you can sit through anything.

Then came Terrifier 2, and fans were extremely excited. This time, the budget was much bigger, and so were the kills. Leone doubled down on everything that made the first movie so gruesome. He heavily focused on the practical effects, over-the-top gore and the scary charm of Art the Clown. So, Terrifier 2 introduced some new characters and a bit of a deeper storyline. It also had this insane, exciting fight scene between Art and a new character named Sienna, played by Lauren LaVera. She’s not just your typical final girl. She really adds something new into the mix. You actually see her standing up to Art instead of just being a helpless victim, which in my opinion is pretty cool.

And you know what’s wild? Terrifier 2 became a huge hit with audiences, and not just horror fans. This movie, which is about as far from mainstream as you can get, ended up in theatres and did pretty well for a horror indie. And it wasn’t just horror fans who noticed, a lot of people who wouldn’t typically watch a slasher were curious to see what all the hype was about. People fainted in the theatre, some even walked out because they couldn’t handle the intensity of Terrifier 2. The hype surrounding Terrifier 2 helped it reach more than just horror fans. Art the Clown became a big deal and not just your ordinary horror movie antagonist.

What I find interesting about Art the Clown is how he has evolved in pop culture. Slasher characters usually have something humanising, whether it be trauma or a reason for their vicious actions. But Art is a bit different. He’s chaotic and unpredictable, kind of like a Joker without any monologues or some sort of tragic backstory. And while characters like Michael Myers or Freddy Krueger have become iconic, they also became pretty predictable as the franchises grew. Art, on the other hand, is kind of unpredictable. Each movie raised more questions about who or what he is. He has a supernatural vibe, but it’s never fully explained why, which makes him even scarier in my opinion.

The director of the Terrifier films, Damien Leone, has mentioned that he has plans to explore Art’s origins more in future films, but honestly, I hope he keeps some mystery. Horror loses some of its power when everything is explained, don’t you think? Part of what makes Terrifier so terrifying is that we don’t know exactly what Art actually is or why he does what he does. We just know he’s out there, unstoppable and will show no mercy to his victims.

Another cool thing about the Terrifier films is how Terrifier leans into the basic horror movie tropes but also adds a few new twists to it. It’s a slasher series, sure, but it also taps into the same fears that the silent-era clowns used to produce. Think of characters like Lon Chaney’s Laugh Clown Laugh or the Joker in his earliest days.

You know, Art’s silent and over-the-top style is pretty unique. It feels both old-school and modern at the same time. That’s what sets him apart from the average masked killers in horror movies. He really stands out. The difference between his clown look and his brutal violence is honestly pretty crazy. It really throws you off and makes his actions even more unsettling. You just don’t really expect it.

And it’s funny, because in an era when most horror films lean heavily on jump scares or psychological horror, Terrifier really goes all in for shock and gore without holding back. It’s like the filmmakers literally just said, “Let’s make it as bloody and scary as possible.” It’s honestly kind of nice to see a horror movie that doesn’t try to be subtle at all, don’t you think.

Now let’s talk about the present. Terrifier is officially in theatres and apparently it’s just as violent as the previous terrifier films. This go around, the movie takes on the Christmas theme where Art the Clown goes on a massive rampage while dressed in a Santa Claus costume. Now, I actually haven’t gone to a theatre and seen the movie but I do plan on seeing it some time soon. I’m really excited to see where they take Art next! But at the same time, I can’t help but think about how far Leone can push Art before he starts to fizzle out, you know? I mean, there’s only so much terror you can put into one character.

If you haven’t seen any of the Terrifier movies yet and think you can handle the blood, gore, and pure horror, you should definitely check it out this Halloween season. Just a heads up though, Art’s not for the faint of heart. He really sticks with you, stuck in your head long after you finish watching the movies. It’s his creepy bloody smile, the silence, and those shockingly creative kills that make Terrifier one of the scariest horror films in recent years.

So, if you’re brave enough, go and check it out! This horror series really goes all in on all the creepy stuff and it truly brings something new to the table every time. Honestly, whether you love Art the Clown or find him terrifying, he’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

Remembering Johnny Gaudreau

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Oh, Johnny Gaudreau. Just hearing that name brings back so many memories, doesn’t it? It still doesn’t feel real that I’m writing this article about him in the past tense. Johnny was just 31 years old, full of life, with so much more to give, both on and off the ice. The accident that took him and his brother Matthew on August 29, 2024, was a tragedy no one saw coming at all. They were just out for a bike ride in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, enjoying a bit of downtime together. And then boom, just like that, their lives were taken away by an impaired driver.

So while mourning this tragic loss, allow me to help you remember the life of Johnny Gaudreau

He grew up in Carneys Point, New Jersey, as this undersized, overlooked kid with a huge love for hockey. He wasn’t a big player or anything like that, but he had the drive and the talent to prove that size wasn’t always everything. If you watched Johnny play, you’d remember the magic he brought to the ice. He wasn’t just fast, he was smart, getting around defenders like it was nothing. He made it look so easy, but everyone knew the work he put in behind the scenes.

He was drafted 104th overall by the Calgary Flames in 2011. At that point, he was still this small kid with big dreams, but he’d already shown the hockey world that he had what it took to be one of the all-time greats. When Johnny left college at Boston College and finally joined the Calgary Flames, he was ready to make an impact. And that he did. In his debut game against the Vancouver Canucks, he scored his first NHL goal, making a statement right from the get-go. From there, he became one of the biggest names in not only the NHL but the hockey world as well. Johnny was the kind of player everyone tuned in to see.

His nickname, “Johnny Hockey,” says a lot. He was known for his quick moves and skilled style of play. There were times he’d take the puck from end to end, leaving fans and defenders with their jaws touching the floor. He wasn’t afraid to try out these risky plays, the ones most players wouldn’t even dare to attempt. Johnny played with this kind of confidence that made every shift exciting to watch, and it didn’t take very long for him to become the face of the Calgary Flames.

But it wasn’t just Johnny’s amazing hockey skills that people loved, it was his heart too. He was one of those players who, despite the fame, never lost his modesty. Fans loved him not only because he could light up the light and make fans jump from their seats, but because he was always a down-to-earth person. He took the time to sign autographs for fans, smile for photos, and make kids feel like they could be the next Johnny Hockey. He had this special way of connecting with the fans, making them feel seen and appreciated.

Then, in 2022, Johnny made a huge decision. He left Calgary for the Columbus Blue Jackets. It surprised a lot of people, including me, but he wanted a fresh start, and Columbus gave him that. The Flames had been his home for over seven years, but Columbus was a new chapter in his hockey journey, and he took it on with his usual energy. Even though he was only with the Blue Jackets for a short period of time, he brought the same intensity and excitement that fans had come to expect from him. And Columbus welcomed him with open arms.

Johnny’s impact in the hockey world went way beyond just his stats and goals. He was a role model for many young players, especially those who were told they were “too small” to make it to the NHL. Watching him prove everyone wrong was incredibly inspiring. For every kid who wanted to play in the NHL but was worried they didn’t have the size, Johnny was living proof that skill, dedication, and heart could carry you to amazing heights. That legacy is something that will continue to inspire many young hockey players for years to come.

One of the saddest parts of this story is that Johnny and Matthew were so close. They were brothers, yes, but they were also best friends. Johnny often talked about in interviews how much he valued his family, and Matthew was a huge part of his life. They shared the same passion for hockey, the same family bond. Knowing they were together in their final moments is heartbreaking but also somehow comforting. Knowing they at least had each other is incredibly heartwarming.

And that’s what makes this accident such a hard pill to swallow. Johnny and Matthew were taken by a terrible senseless act. A driver who made the stupid decision to get behind the wheel while knowing he was impaired. The thought of such a tragic loss caused by something so avoidable is so hard to digest. Their deaths are a painful reminder of the damage that impaired driving can cause, and their loss has left a huge hole in the hockey community and beyond.

In the days following the accident, the outpouring of love and memories from fans, teammates, and even rival teams was overwhelming. In both Columbus and Calgary, fans started to leave Johnny Gaudreau-related items in front of the arenas.

People remembered not just the player, but the person whether it be his kindness, his humility, and his infectious energy. He wasn’t just an NHL all-star, he was someone you felt you knew, even if you’d only ever seen him play on the TV.

His family has asked that people remember the lives of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau for the joy they brought into this world. And really, that’s the perfect way to honour their lives. Johnny lived every moment fully, playing with passion, giving back, and loving his family. Losing him feels incredibly unfair, but in his short time here on this earth, he made a lasting impact. His life, though brief, was full of purpose, and his spirit will continue to inspire many.

The hockey world is missing a massive chunk without him, but Johnny’s legacy is going to live on in every young hockey player who dreams big, every fan who watched him play and believed in the magic of the game, and every person he inspired along the way. Johnny Gaudreau will be missed deeply, but his memory will forever be part of the game he loved.

Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, you will be deeply missed.

The Downfall of The EA NHL Series

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Ahhhhh, the EA NHL series. If you’re like me and have been following the franchise for years, you’ll know it holds a special place in the hearts of many hockey fans, especially those who grew up in gaming. But something’s changed, right? It’s like watching a friend who was once full of potential, lose their way over the years. What happened to EA’s NHL series that once felt like a must-have every year? Let’s dig into it because there’s a lot to unpack.

First, let’s rewind a bit. Remember the early 2000s? The NHL series was on fire. Whether it was NHL 2002, 2003, or NHL 2004, these games had something so appealing about them. The controls were tight, the gameplay felt dynamic, and, let’s be real, the commentary and soundtrack? Iconic. Plus, the graphics, for their time, were absolutely stunning. There was something fun and addicting about dropping in for a quick game or diving into a playoff mode that felt like you were really bringing a team to a Stanley Cup.

Then NHL 2009 came along and brought the “Skill Stick” revolution. Remember that? Using the right stick to control your shots and dekes was a game-changer, no pun intended. It made the gameplay feel so much more smooth and natural, like you were actually controlling a player on the ice, rather than pressing buttons in a sequence. That was the beginning of a golden era for the NHL franchise.

From NHL 09 through to around NHL 14, the series was hitting all the right notes. It felt like EA was listening to its fans, innovating the gameplay, and keeping the franchise fresh. You’d see little tweaks each year that made a real difference whether it be better AI, smarter goaltending or more realistic skating physics. The game felt deep, rewarding, and something you could play for countless hours without feeling like you were wasting any of your time. Heck, even the cover athletes felt like they represented the pinnacle of the sport. I still remember Steven Stamkos on NHL 12 and Claude Giroux on NHL 13.

But then something happened. Around the time NHL 15 launched, the wheels started falling off.

It was EA’s first attempt at the series on the next-gen consoles (PS4, Xbox One), and honestly, it was an absolute dumpster fire. They cut features. I mean like huge features. Franchise Mode was gutted, you couldn’t play Season Mode, and don’t even get me started on the lack of EASHL (EA Sports Hockey League), which was one of the biggest multiplayer game modes in the series.

It was like they were so focused on getting the game to look pretty on the new hardware that they forgot to include, you know, the actual fun stuff. Sure, the graphics were nice. The arenas looked slick, the player models were sharper, but the gameplay? The depth? All that was missing. You know it’s bad when people are asking to go back to the previous-gen version because it had a lot more features.

Once NHL 15 came out, the series started to settle into this weird pattern where every year felt like a copy-paste job. EA would put out some new random features like improved puck physics or better collisions, but let’s be honest, could you really tell the difference year to year? Because I for sure couldn’t. They started adding these gimmicky game modes like NHL Threes or Ones, which were fun for about five minutes but didn’t have the staying power that the core modes did.

Franchise mode has barely evolved in what feels like a decade. It’s the same menus, the same shallow trade logic, the same free agency system that makes you want to pull your hair out. Yes, I know the newer game, NHL 25, revamped franchise mode but it is all mostly menus. Players, like me, don’t really like that. Don’t even get me started on the be a pro mode. When they announced that they would be doing a complete overhaul on the Be a Pro mode for NHL 21, like everyone else, I was so hyped. I couldn’t wait to get my hands on NHL 21.

Before this, it was just like franchise mode, just straight menus. They created this conversation thingy where you could actually interact with your teammates and coaches while playing. Even when you’re getting drafted they do like this whole interview with a team’s management staff. Now, you’d expect even just a few changes to the mode but nope. It’s still been the same beginning cutscene for the past four years where the phrase “Pricey pond hockey” is heard every freakin’ year.

Now one of the biggest reasons for the NHL series’ downfall is the addition of microtransactions. It’s not like they’re unique to the NHL series too. Ultimate Team is a big cash grab across the FIFA and Madden series. In EA NHL, it’s especially frustrating because the rest of the game feels so far behind in many areas. When you see EA putting so much effort into making sure Ultimate Team is front and centre, it’s hard not to feel like the core of the game is being ignored.

It almost feels like EA shifted focus to Ultimate Team. Rather than developing a deeper, more satisfying game, they’re catering to the quick-fix, spend-money-here crowd. Ultimate Team is essentially built for people to drop money to build their dream squad, but the rest of the game is left untouched. Long-time players, like myself, are frustrated as EA focuses on the same money-making formula, while the rest of the game feels like it’s being ignored.

What made the NHL series so special before was its identity. It really felt like hockey. You could tell EA had a passion for the sport of hockey. There was a focus on making it realistic, immersive, and true to the spirit of the game. But over time, it’s like the series lost that passion. Instead of trying to copy the intensity of a real NHL game, it’s more like they’re just making sure the game is “good enough” to release each year. There’s no longer that drive to innovate or evolve in any significant way.

It doesn’t help the fact that EA NHL isn’t as big as FIFA or Madden. EA knows they can push a new FIFA or Madden game every year, and millions will buy it no matter what. The NHL series, though? It’s a smaller market, and it feels like EA is fine with putting in the bare minimum to keep that part of their audience coming back without spending too much time or money developing something truly great. That’s probably why we’ve seen a lot more copy-paste games over the years with very little crazy changes to the games.
Honestly, it feels like the NHL series is at a crossroads. Hockey fans have been incredibly vocal about their frustrations, especially in recent years. You see it all over Reddit, Twitter, and in YouTube game reviews. People are tired of the same old recycled experience. And while EA has made a few improvements here and there, like adding back some features they stripped away during the next-gen transition, it feels more like a band-aid on a much bigger problem.

The question is however can EA make a comeback? Or have they lost the plot entirely?

Part of me hopes they can pull off a comeback. We’ve seen it happen in other franchises, like NBA 2K, which at one point went through a pretty rough patch before bouncing back with some serious innovation. But for that to happen, EA needs to stop treating the NHL series like a game they can just copy and paste every year. They need to go back to basics, listen to the community, and rebuild the franchise’s identity. If they keep doing what they’re doing now, focusing more on microtransactions and less on actual hockey fans, the series is just going to keep declining.

At this point, I think a lot of us are just hoping for something fresh, something that can rekindle that excitement we used to feel when a new NHL game dropped. Until then, it’s hard not to feel like we’re just watching a slow, disappointing downfall.

The Brock Purdy Story

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Brock Purdy. Now if you’re a football fan, even a casual one, you may have heard the name Brock Purdy at least once in your life. He has one of the most unexpected and exciting stories in recent NFL history. I mean, it’s crazy to think about where this guy was just a couple of years ago and how he’s now leading one of the most iconic franchises in football, the San Francisco 49ers. If you were to go back and tell anyone this was going to happen, they’d probably laugh at you, thinking you were talking about some Madden video game simulation. But here we are in 2024, approaching 2025, and Brock Purdy is the real deal.

Let’s start at the beginning of Brock’s football career, which wasn’t exactly the start of dreams to say the least. Brock Purdy wasn’t some five-star, can’t-miss prospect out of high school. Nope, he didn’t have a line of top-ranked colleges knocking on his door. Purdy played his high school ball at Perry High School in Arizona. His senior year was solid, but he didn’t have the type of offers that would make you he would be a future NFL all-star

He ended up committing to Iowa State, a program not exactly known for producing NFL quarterbacks. At Iowa State, though, Purdy quietly started turning heads. He became a four-year starter, and during that time, he built a reputation for being a tough, gritty, and smart quarterback who could extend plays and lead his team to victory. Now, Iowa State is one of those powerhouse programs, but Purdy managed to hold his own in the Big 12, making a name for himself in big games and showing that he could lead an average team to massive heights.

Fast forward to the 2022 NFL Draft. Purdy had a decent college career, but he wasn’t exactly on any of the scout’s radar as a top draft pick. In fact, Purdy ended up being picked dead last in the draft, 262nd overall, earning the title “Mr. Irrelevant.”

Now, if you don’t follow the NFL closely, that’s a nickname given to the last player taken in the draft, and it’s kind of like a light-hearted joke because, let’s be real, most guys drafted at that spot don’t stick around in the league for too long.

But here’s the thing, that “Mr. Irrelevant” name is pretty misleading when it comes to Brock Purdy. The dude just didn’t let it bother him. For most players, going that late in the draft is a blow to the ego. But Purdy? Nah, he just put his head down and went to work. And you have to respect that. He wasn’t coming into the league with a chip on his shoulder, he was coming in with a boulder-sized one.

Now, the 49ers weren’t exactly in a desperate need for a quarterback when they picked up Purdy. They had just traded a boatload of picks to move up and draft Trey Lance in 2021, and they still had Jimmy Garoppolo, a guy who had taken them to a Super Bowl in the past. So Purdy was very much seen as a developmental player. His job was to learn the playbook, practice hard, and be ready just in the slight chance all the quarterbacks get injured. But with Garoppolo and Lance ahead of him, it didn’t look like he was going to see the field any time soon.

Then came 2022, and, man, the 49ers’ quarterback situation became a rollercoaster. First, Lance went down with a season-ending injury early in the season, and Garoppolo had to take over. But in typical 49ers fashion, the injury bug struck again when Jimmy G broke his foot, leaving the team scrambling for answers. At this point, they were down to their third-string quarterback. Enter Brock Purdy. The season was in jeopardy, and fans weren’t exactly booming with confidence when they heard Purdy was going to be the man leading the charge.

In his first game, 49er fans were completely in shock. Purdy didn’t just manage the game he completely balled out. His first start came against Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and what does Purdy do? He puts on an absolute clinic. He outplayed Tom Brady, yes that Tom Brady, on national television. Purdy threw for 185 yards and two touchdowns, leading the 49ers to a blowout 35-7 victory. Suddenly, this wasn’t some random backup QB filling in. People were taking notice. Purdy was showing poise, confidence, and that “it” factor that you just can’t teach to any football player.

The best part? He didn’t play like someone who was afraid to mess up. You know how some young quarterbacks get in there and play scared, just hoping not to throw a pick? Not Purdy. He was letting it rip, trusting his arm and decision-making, and most importantly, trusting the system 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan had built.

Speaking of Kyle Shanahan, we need to talk about how his system has been the perfect fit for Brock. Shanahan has always been known for designing quarterback-friendly offences. Think back to when he was the offensive coordinator in Atlanta and helped Matt Ryan win MVP. His system focuses on timing, making quick decisions, and getting the ball out quickly, which is exactly what Purdy does best.

Shanahan didn’t need Purdy to be a superhero, he just needed him to be smart, accurate, and run the offence efficiently. Purdy was more than up to the task. Game after game, he stepped up, making the right reads, moving in the pocket to buy extra time, and, most importantly, making plays when the team needed them. That’s the thing with Purdy, he’s not flashy, but he’s effective. He plays with this calmness that you don’t often see in young quarterbacks like him, especially ones who were drafted so late.

By the time the regular season ended, the 49ers were rolling, and Purdy was leading the charge. What was even crazier was that the 49ers didn’t need him to be just good; they needed him to be great. And he was. San Francisco entered the playoffs with Super Bowl aspirations, and Purdy didn’t flinch under the bright lights.

He led the team through the Wild Card and Divisional Rounds, showing that his regular-season success wasn’t a fluke. His poise, accuracy, and ability to avoid mistakes were huge for a team that boasted a top-tier defence. But in the NFC Championship Game against the Philadelphia Eagles, disaster struck. Midway through the first quarter, Purdy suffered a UCL injury when he was hit while attempting a pass, which severely limited his ability to throw.

With the team down to their emergency quarterback, Josh Johnson, the 49ers fought hard but ultimately came up short. Even though they fell short in the NFC Championship game, by then, Purdy had already proved himself as a legitimate starting quarterback in the NFL. The “Mr. Irrelevant” story had flipped on its head. Now, he was anything but irrelevant.

Heading into the 2023/24 season, there were high hopes for the 49ers, and much of that optimism was tied to Brock Purdy. After his impressive 2022 run and the team’s promising performance in the postseason, all eyes were on Brock Purdy to see if he could take the niners to the next step. Now, in most cases, there’s a certain amount of scepticism that follows young quarterbacks, especially ones drafted as late as Purdy. You think, “Was that run just a fluke? Can he sustain it?”

But here’s the thing with Purdy he didn’t just sustain his level of play in 2024, he elevated it. The 49ers had one of the most well-rounded rosters in the league, and with Purdy leading the charge, they went on a tear through the regular season. The offence was clicking on all cylinders, and Purdy’s ability to operate within Kyle Shanahan’s system only got better with more experience.

This was no small feat given the level of competition in the NFC. But the magic of Purdy is that he knows how to stay within himself. He doesn’t try to do too much, but when the team needs a big throw or a crucial third-down conversion, he delivers.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a 49ers season without a bit of injury drama. Around the middle of the season, Purdy suffered a minor injury that had fans holding their breath momentarily. Fortunately, it turned out to be nothing major, and after missing just one or two games, Purdy returned to lead the team on a dominant stretch run.

Now it was no doubt that the Niners made the playoffs that year. In the divisional round the Niners started their postseason with the 9-8 Green Bay Packers where they were able to seal a 24-21 victory and move onto the NFC Championship game where they would find themselves in a battle with the Detroit Lions. Now, at this time no one expected the Detroit Lions to make it past the wild card round yet alone make it to the NFC Championship Game. They somehow got past the 10-7 Los Angeles Rams and the 9-8 Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Anyways, let’s focus on this NFC Championship Game we got on our hands. Well, the result of that game ended in the Niners favour as they ended the Cinderella run of the Detroit Lions and moved on to their first superbowl in 4 years. And guess who they face in the Super Bowl 58. None other than the defending champs, the Kansas City Chiefs. Now the Chiefs roster is absolutely stacked, with key players like Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce being a major reason why they’re the defending champs in the first place. This game however, was one of the closest games I’ve ever seen as a football fan. From lead changes to massive possession changes trust me this game had it all. And that’s not all, naturally the closest game of the season needed some overtime action. Unfortunately for the Niners and their fans, it ended with Chiefs victory as Mecole Hardman was open for the pass in the Niners endzone and made the Chiefs go back-to-back.

So here we are now in 2024, watching Purdy lead one of the best teams in the NFL. It’s wild to think that just two years ago, most fans didn’t even know his name, and now he’s the face of the San Francisco 49ers. What makes Purdy’s story so cool is how he defied every expectation of him. This was a guy who wasn’t even supposed to get a shot, let alone be the face of the franchise.

Looking ahead, the 49ers seem set at quarterback. And you have to think that with the weapons he has around him, Christian McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, George Kittle and the mastermind Kyle Shanahan calling plays, the sky’s the limit for the San Francisco 49ers.

In a league where first-round picks and hyped-up prospects often steal the headlines, Brock Purdy has reminded everyone that it’s not always about where you’re drafted, it’s about what you do when you get your shot. And man, has Purdy made the most of his. The future’s bright for this guy, and honestly, it’s going to be fun watching his career unfold from here.

Why WWE Theme Songs Are Amazing

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Have you ever noticed how WWE theme songs just hit different sometimes? If you’re a fan of WWE, you probably get what I’m saying. For every wrestling fan, like myself, the first time they heard their favourite wrestling theme song for the very first time, it creates a core memory that they’ll never forget for the rest of their life. Suddenly, every time a wrestler’s music plays, it feels like the energy in the arena changes, and you know something big and exciting is about to happen.

WWE theme songs have this way of making entrances feel larger than life. Let’s rewind back to the late 80’s to early 90’s, like let’s take Stone Cold Steve Austin, for example. When that glass shatters, you can feel the crowd absolutely lose it. It’s electric! It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve heard it before, it just gets you every time and you’re ready for some good old wrestling. That glass shatter is iconic, in my opinion and it’s pretty much a signal to the wrestlers that Stone Cold Steve Austin is about to open a can of whoop ass on you. Every time I hear it, I can’t help but get excited, even if I’ve heard it a million times before.

Then there’s The Undertaker. His theme starts with that ominous bell, and it just sets a whole different mood. It’s chilling, right? It’s almost like the whole arena’s atmosphere changes, and you feel this mix of anticipation and awe. When you hear that ominous theme, you know it’s not just another regular old wrestling bout, it’s the freakin’ Undertaker, and you just know you’re in for something special. The song itself creates this sense of drama and excitement that just pulls you in. Watching him walk to the ring, you can’t help but feel The Undertaker’s mystical aura, and that’s all thanks to the magic of his entrance music.

Now let’s fast forward to the mid 2000’s to early 2010’s with John Cena’s theme “The Time is Now”. Now John Cena has had some banger theme songs in the past like when John was in the midst of his rapping gimmick and John was using the song titled “Basic Thuganomics”. But let’s focus more on his “The Time is Now” theme. When his theme hits, the whole crowd jumps to their feet. It’s high-energy, catchy, and just makes you want to cheer. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve found myself humming his theme after a show. The music matches his persona so perfectly, capturing that “never give up” attitude. You know when that music plays, you’re in for a great time.

And how about Triple H? His theme, “The Game,” is the pure definition of strength and determination. The second it plays, you know he means business. There’s something so intense about it that it makes you feel like you’re part of the action. Watching him spit water on the stage and strut to the ring is just as thrilling as the match itself. That theme music sets the tone for everything he does. You can feel the confidence and determination in it. Even today, although Triple H may not be wrestling anymore, it seems like whenever his theme hits the speakers of an arena, there’s going to be some sort of huge announcement.

But what’s really cool is how WWE keeps that energy alive for newer stars. Like let’s look at Seth “Freakin” Rollins. When Seth Rollins’ theme plays, I can’t help but get pumped and sing along. It’s fast-paced and chaotic, perfectly fitting his in-ring style. And then there’s the Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns. His theme has this epic, almost cinematic feel that gets you ready for a massive main event. Especially his newest theme too. Even though it’s basically a remix of his last theme song, it still captures Roman’s aura to its finest details. When it hits, you know he’s coming in as the head of the table and the OTC (Original Tribal Chief), and you’re ready for the fight of your lifetime. The music quite literally sounds like it comes straight out of an avengers movie.

What’s amazing about these theme songs is that they stick with you for the rest of your life. You hear them once, and they become part of your memory. I bet if you hear a theme from your favourite wrestler, it takes you back to all those insane moments, the crowd going crazy, the wins and the losses. It’s incredible how music can connect us to those feelings and experiences.

When you think about it, WWE theme songs create a unique atmosphere that really adds to the overall experience of watching wrestling. Each wrestler’s entrance is carefully made, not just with their moves and persona but with their music that captures their essence. You could be watching at home or live in the arena, but when those themes play, they bring everyone together in a type of bond that no other form of entertainment can create.

Plus, there’s a sense of nostalgia tied to these songs. Every time I hear an older theme, it reminds me of specific matches or storylines that I loved back in the day. It takes me back to those moments when I was just glued to the television screen, cheering for my favourite wrestlers, praying that they make it out of the match alive. It’s honestly kind of amazing how just a few notes of a wrestler’s theme song can pull you back in time and remind you of why you fell in love with wrestling in the first place.

And let’s talk about the creativity involved in these themes. WWE has worked with some incredible composers, most notably Jim Johnston and CFO$. Jim Johnston, who created many iconic themes such as Brock Lesnar’s theme, The Rock’s theme and even The Undertaker’s theme. Man, thank god for Jim Johnston for thinking of bells while creating the theme for The Undertaker. Little did Jim Johnston know at the time that those same bells would be one of the most iconic noises in wrestling history. During his time with WWE, Jim was known for his ability to craft music that resonated deeply with fans. His hard-hitting rock anthems and memorable melodies set the tone for legendary characters and moments in wrestling history. After Johnston I would say the masterminds behind some of the most iconic wrestling theme songs in recent history is all thanks to the duo CFO$. Their tracks, like “World’s Apart” for Sami Zayn and “Burn It Down” for Seth Rollins, showcase a diverse range of styles, from some rock to some upbeat music.

More recently, Def Rebel has stepped into the spotlight, creating many of the newer wrestling themes. Now, I’m not one to give criticism but I will say this however. Me and a lot of other wrestling fans don’t think a wrestler’s catchphrase should be used at the beginning of a song. If you know you know.

So, next time you hear your favourite WWE theme song, take a moment to appreciate what it means. Each song tells a story, celebrates a character, and enhances the atmosphere of a wrestling event. WWE theme songs are truly unforgettable, and they play a significant role in why we keep coming back to wrestling in the first place. Whether it’s live events or weekly shows, those iconic themes remind us why we love wrestling and make each moment special. So here’s to the unforgettable theme songs that make WWE what it is today!

The Evolution of The Grouse Grind

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It’s known as Mother Nature’s Stairmaster although more commonly known as the Grouse Grind. Ever heard of it? If you’re from Vancouver, chances are that you’ve absolutely heard of it. You’ve probably not only heard of it but you’ve probably grinded it out at least once or twice in your life. I remember the first time someone told me about the Grouse Grind. They said it with this mix of excitement and worry.

The Grouse Grind is much more than just a difficult 2.5km hike, it’s pretty much a legend in Vancouver. And like any good legend, it’s got a story that makes you go, “Really? So that’s how it started?”

So, here’s the deal, the trail we know today as the Grouse Grind wasn’t always this set path. Back in the day, we’re talking like the late ‘70s here, there wasn’t an official route. The people who wanted to go up Grouse Mountain pretty much made their own way up. Imagine just deciding, “ hey, you know what, I’m gonna climb that” and hiking through the Grouse Mountain wilderness with no trail, no map, no signs, just straight nature. But that’s the kind of determination we’re dealing with here. It was mostly all determined mountaineers, nature lovers, and all-around thrill-seekers tackling Grouse mountain back in the day.

By the time the 1980’s rolled around, word got around that people were going up the mountain and Don McPherson and Phil Severy heard about this and decided to build an established trail to go up grouse mountain. This trail is now known as the Grouse Grind. However, when McPherson and Severy built the trail, it was completely unauthorised by the Greater Vancouver Regional District or the Grouse Mountain Resort owners. That’s pretty bold, right? As more and more people discovered the trail, the Grind quickly gained popularity. You try it, then you tell your friends about it, and then suddenly everyone wants to climb it. It quickly changed from a pretty rough path to a well-used trail.

Now like I said earlier, the trail at first was unauthorised by the Greater Vancouver Regional District or the Grouse Mountain Resort owners. Around 1987, a few dedicated people decided it was time to make the path a bit more official. They all got together to clear out the brush, smoothen out the rocks, and basically turned this random path into an actual professional hiking trail. And from that moment on, the Grouse Grind became what we know it as today.

What’s funny though is that when the trail first originally opened, people just called it The Grouse Grind. A fitting name, right? Because that’s what it kind of is right, a grind. The whole thing is just 2.5 kilometres long, but it’s this nonstop, upward climb that gives it its infamous nickname, Mother Nature’s StairMaster.

Oh, did I also mention that the trail is 2,800 feet, straight up. Yes, you heard that right, 2,800 feet, straight up. Imagine going on a StairMaster for about an hour or so but with rocks, tree roots, and sometimes mud under your feet. It’s definitely not for the faint of heart to say the least.

Let’s fast forward to the 1990’s shall we. The Grouse Grind spread like wildfire. Vancouverites and just British Columbians in general loved it. They saw it as a physical challenge, a fitness test, and a way to get your workout in for the day. It started becoming somewhat of a flex to say that you’ve done the Grind. You couldn’t really call yourself a Vancouverite if you hadn’t taken on the Grind at least once.

In fact, I think it’s around this time that it truly became a thing. People started timing themselves, trying to beat their own records, or better yet, someone else’s. There’s always that one person that’s bragging about their time, isn’t there? “Oh, you did it in an hour? I did it in 45 minutes.” It’s all in good fun though, but you can see how the competition aspect of the grind spread over the years.

And here’s the thing, tackling the Grouse Grind isn’t like going to the gym or even going for a jog for that matter. It’s a whole different feeling. A feeling that no other ordinary hike can give you. The Grind has its own culture to it, a community even. You see people of all ages, backgrounds, fitness levels, and everyone’s got their own reason for climbing it. For some, it’s purely about the fitness challenge, for others, it might be because they wanted to see what the hype surrounding the Grind was about. At least that’s why I did it.

For those who’ve done the grind, like myself, you’ll notice there’s this unspoken mutual support. You might not know the person climbing ahead or behind you, but you’re both huffing and puffing up the same brutal path. People will give each other nods of encouragement, maybe even a “You got this!” at the steepest parts. It’s kind of special in a sweaty and exhausted way.

Over time, the Grouse Grind’s popularity grew to the point where thousands of people tackle it each week in peak season. And with that many people doing the Grind, it needed a lot more maintenance than those early hikers ever imagined. Metro Vancouver Parks has been in charge of maintaining it, constantly updating sections to make sure it’s safe.

It also had a few periods of closure for restoration. Each time they close it, people around Vancouver get a bit anxious. It’s like taking away a big piece of the city. And whenever it reopens, it’s almost like a mini celebration among the Grind enthusiasts.

Okay, let’s talk about records here? There are some people who absolutely destroy the Grouse Grind in record times. The fastest recorded time is about 23 minutes. Twenty-three freakin minutes! That’s barely enough time to stop and get a drink of water, let alone scale a mountain. And these record-holders? They’re almost superhuman, training year-round just to shave off a few seconds from their previous records.

There are a few names that come up again and again in the Grouse Grind record books, like Sebastian Salas and Manon Lumb, who hold some of the fastest times recorded. Heck even professional NHL players have insane times. Take the Sedin twins for example. Yes, those Sedin twins, they did it in about 30 minutes. Sebastian Salas is actually the guy who was able to achieve the 23 minute time like I said earlier. The fitness culture in Vancouver? It’s intense. The Grind is a huge part of that, giving people a tough challenge to aim for.

Now there are a few people out there that have tried to beat some of those records and let’s just say it did not end well for them. People have gotten injured up there, sprained ankles, dehydration, and even a few heart attacks. That’s why you see a fair share of warning signs at the trail’s entrance. Rescue crews have had to come in quite a few times over the years, and they’re usually giving the safety first talk when the Grind reopens each year.

Nowadays, the Grouse Grind has hit an iconic status in the city of Vancouver. It’s pretty much a must-do if you’re a local or even a visitor looking to do something that you’ll never forget. People from all over the world come to tackle the Grind, and it’s become a bit of a tourist attraction.

But beyond that, it’s also become this great way to unify each other in a way. You’ll see people of all kinds of fitness levels, from serious athletes to casual hikers, all doing the exact same hike and aiming for the same goal. And that feeling when you reach the top of the mountain? Unbeatable. You step out at the Grouse Mountain Chalet, catch your breath, look down at the city below, and you feel just like a million bucks.

So why do we keep coming back to this insanely difficult climb? There’s something about pushing yourself up that brutal mountain that brings a sense of accomplishment. You’re sweaty, tired, maybe even questioning your sanity, but once you’re done, you feel so alive.

And honestly? The Grind brings people together. It’s this funny little Vancouver experience that reminds you that we’re all just people pushing through something difficult, whether it’s a steep mountain trail or just life itself. And each step, as brutal as it might be, brings you closer to something amazing.

So, next time someone brings up the Grouse Grind, you’ll know it’s not just a hike. It’s a journey, a community, and a piece of Vancouver’s history.

 

FaZe Clan is Massive Again

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You remember the early 2010’s, right? Back when “Call of Duty” was the biggest game on the internet, and YouTube was really starting to take off? FaZe Clan was one of the standout groups from that era of YouTube, forever changing the way gaming content was created and consumed. It’s crazy to think about how FaZe Clan started. They were just a group of friends making those amazing Call of Duty trick shot videos. Then, boom, out of nowhere, they became one of the biggest gaming organizations in the world! But just as fast as they rose to fame, they nearly lost it all. They went through controversy after controversy, and it was tough for them to stay on top. But you know what? In the face of all that, they managed to make a massive comeback With a record-breaking subathon in September 2024 and a bold move to completely rebuild their roster. Now you may be asking yourself what the heck is a subathon? Well, let me tell you. A subathon is basically a streaming event where a content creator live streams themselves 24/7 non-stop, with the length of the stream extending as viewers subscribe, hence the name subathon. Basically a subscription marathon

Anyways, let’s not waste any more time here and dive right into how FaZe clan managed to get revived even when all hope seemed lost.

FaZe Clan was created back in 2010 when a bunch of friends who were really good at Call of Duty wanted to make a name for themselves. They weren’t professional players or anything like that but they were determined content creators who focused on trick shots and their skills in the game of Call of Duty. They quickly built a following with YouTube videos showing their insane Call of Duty skills. Fans really loved how they made gaming look cool, professional, and fun. Then in 2014, president of FaZe, Thomas “Temperrr” Oliveira and COO, Richard “Banks” Bengston took a big step by creating the first FaZe shared home in Plainview, New York.

This house was all about producing more lifestyle content alongside their awesome gaming videos. This really helped them connect with their fans on a more personal level.

In the years that followed, FaZe really took off. They grew in membership and popularity, with key members like Adapt, Jev, Banks, and Apex helping drive that surge in popularity. Their charisma and skill really showed in their videos and competitive performances, which brought in tons of new fans to FaZe. FaZe became more than just a gaming team, they became a whole brand. Their logo and merchandise were everywhere, worn proudly by fans. Even a few celebrities started to recognize them. They became symbols of the gaming industry. They began expanding into other games beyond Call of Duty as Call of Duty was losing some steam in popularity. Games like Counter-Strike and Fortnite were really stealing that spotlight that Call of Duty had before. By 2018, FaZe had established itself as a top-tier organization in the esports and gaming world. Their rise seemed to be unstoppable, with different investments, partnerships, and growth across a variety of different platforms. But you know what they say, success comes with its fair share of challenges, and FaZe Clan definitely faced some of those!

As FaZe Clan grew in popularity, the pressure really started to weigh in on them. With so many things to manage like streaming, merchandise, partnerships, content production and competitive teams, they became quite overwhelmed to say the least. Managing a much larger roster than before became extremely difficult, especially when some members got involved in controversies that damaged the organization’s reputation. For instance, in 2019, FaZe Jarvis was permanently banned from Fortnite for using aimbot software for a YouTube video, which sparked a huge backlash despite his tearful apology.

Things escalated in 2021 when several members of FaZe, including FaZe Kay, Jarvis, Nikan, and Teeqo, were accused of promoting a cryptocurrency called SaveTheKids, which turned out to be a pump-and-dump scheme. This scandal led to Kay’s removal and the suspension of several others. These controversies and disputes significantly impacted FaZe’s reputation.

Besides these public controversies, the financial side of FaZe also started to fail. The organisation had poured tons of money into rapid expansion, aiming to keep up with the broader esports and influencer trends. As prices rose, so did the demands for revenue. The strain became apparent in 2022 and 2023, with several members either leaving FaZe or just let go entirely. Fans, including myself, noticed, and some began to drift away, finding new groups and creators to support.

By late 2023, FaZe Clan was on the brink of irrelevance. The team was not in a good place, with many original members either leaving or distancing themselves from the brand, and FaZe’s once-loyal fans were wondering if the organization could make it another year.

Just when things seemed at their darkest, FaZe Banks made a massive announcement on X/Twitter on April 27th, 2024 regarding the future of the organisation.

He announced a major change in the roster, cutting down to a focused, dedicated group of 14 core members. The roster consisted of Adapt, Apex, Banks, Jasontheween, Jev, Kaysan, Lacy, Nickmercs, Plaqueboymax, Replays, Stable Ronaldo, Rug, Scope, Silky, Swagg, Temperr, Your_rage, and Zoomaa. When this was announced, fans were pretty sceptical if this was going to work out. At this time, the majority of people had no clue who Jasontheween, Lacy, Plaqueboymax and Silky even were. On August 31st 2024, FaZe announced that they would be doing a 30 day subathon for the whole month of September.

Now, the FaZe subathon was a bit different compared to other subathons done in the past. Six key members of FaZe (Adapt, Ron, Lacy, Jason, Max, and Silky) participated in the subathon, each streaming at the same time with their own timers. If one timer ran out, the whole subathon would end. This let fans connect with the streamers better since they were live 24/7, making it quite a unique experience.

The subathon was packed with a bunch of different entertaining segments, ranging from a basketball trick shot segment to a FaZe video game night. One of my favourite segments from the whole subathon was when Ron and Adapt tried to make a grilled cheese at 2 o’clock in the morning. Ron and Adapt have horrible cooking skills. Take a guess what they used as a pan. a strainer. Yes, a strainer. To make this segment even more hilarious, they nearly burned down the whole FaZe house as the strainer actually caught on fire.

Their limited cooking knowledge made this segment extremely funny. Many viewers began to compare Ron and Adapt to Mordecai and Rigby from the amazing cartoon show, “Regular Show”. To make this claim even more factual, at the end of the subathon, FaZe held an award show and just take a guess who won best duo.

 

Yes, it was Ron and Adapt.

Now, one of the most iconic clips of the subathon is when Jasontheween hit 100k subscribers on twitch. To put this into perspective, Jason had around 14,000 active subscribers at the start of the subathon. The fact how he was able to even reach that milestone in just a mere 30 days is just absolutely incredible in my opinion. The clip itself was crazy as each member of FaZe was there in Jason’s room the moment he hit this incredible milestone. And not only that, right after he hit 100k, he started playing New Jeans’ hit song ETA. Which now is one of the most viral songs on the internet right now.

It’s no doubt that the subathon itself went extremely viral, becoming one of Twitch’s most-watched events to date. As new and old fans followed the subathon, the excitement grew. People who had followed FaZe since the beginning felt a renewed connection, while new fans discovered the magic of FaZe for the first time. By the end of the subathon, FaZe had brought in millions of new subscribers and followers, thousands of whom joined just to be a part of the comeback.

The FaZe subathon ended only a week ago, but I think it’s safe to say that FaZe clan is officially back. Thanks to this subathon, FaZe has entered a new era, the streaming era. This new era isn’t just a return to their early days. FaZe Clan has changed, and so have its fans. With more experience, a fresh purpose, and a focus on community, FaZe’s comeback story is inspiring for everyone in the gaming world. This subathon gave me the inspiration to start streaming on twitch actually. In the end, FaZe Clan’s journey shows resilience and the strength of a passionate community. They proved that in esports, a setback doesn’t have to mean the end, it can be the start of something even better.